Interviews

Name: Tomás Murphy
TCD Qualification: TCPID graduate
Title: Permanent employee with the law firm A&L Goodbody

About: The Trinity Centre for People with Intellectual Disabilities (TCPID) situated within the School of Education, provides opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to take part in a higher education programme designed to enhance their capacity to fully participate in society as independent adults. Tomás Murphy, is a graduate of the TCPID and is now a permanent employee with the law firm A&L Goodbody.

What did you enjoy most about being a student in Trinity?
I enjoyed all that went with being a Trinity Student, especially the feeling of independence, meeting new people and learning new subjects. I also appreciated being fully included like any other student in the university. 

How did the Certificate in Contemporary Living (CCL) prepare you for your current job with A&L Goodbody?
One of the subjects on the course was a ‘Work Module’. As part of this module we learned how to prepare and compose CVs and communications. I also got an opportunity to do some work experience in Trinity’s bar, the ‘Pav’, State Street Bank and Goldman Sachs.

What was the biggest change you experienced when you went from being a Trinity student to working?
I had a lot more responsibility. In Trinity I was a carefree student gaining knowledge. At work I was putting all that knowledge into practice.

What is your proudest achievement to date?
My proudest achievement was being made Ambassador of the Centre here I got the opportunity to help roll out the programme across counties in Ireland like Galway and Waterford. I also travelled abroad to Iceland, and Washington where I presented at conferences. Being made a permanent employee in A& L Goodbody is a very proud achievement.

How do you stay in touch with Trinity?
I regularly check the Trinity website and follow their Facebook page. I also have the contact details and stay in touch by e-mail.

What advice would you give to this year’s TCPID students?
Enjoy the time you have in Trinity and work hard as the two years will pass very quickly.

What would you like to say to those who donate money to support the Centre?
I would like personally to thank all those who have donated money over the years as this course offers students with disabilities the opportunity to experience a third level course at Trinity.

If you had one Christmas wish what would it be?
As a graduate of the course, I would like to be able to return to further my studies at some stage with the support of the Centre.

To find out more about the work of the Trinity Centre for People with Intellectual Disabilities please visit their website here.